General Guideline Principles for Imaging of
Neck Injury for workers compensation patients

The New York State workers compensation board has developed these guidelines to help physicians, podiatrists, and other healthcare professionals provide appropriate treatment for Imaging.

These Workers Compensation Board guidelines are intended to assist healthcare professionals in making decisions regarding the appropriate level of care for their patients with ankle and foot disorders.

The guidelines are not a substitute for clinical judgement or professional experience. The ultimate decision regarding care must be made by the patient in consultation with his or her healthcare provider.

Imaging of Neck Injury

If judged clinically necessary, cervical spine imaging can be acquired. Right, Anteroposterior (AP), Lateral, left, swimmers, and odontoid are the standard x-ray views. To assess instability, extension views and lateral flexion are used. In certain cases, CT scans may be required to see the C7 and odontoid.

When an injury spins the al cord is suspected, in addition to the other disorders that will be covered below, an MRI or CT scan is advised. To help the radiologist and x-ray technician, the mechanism of damage and particular imaging indications should be stated on the request form.

Imaging may not be necessary for conscious, sober patients with isolated cervical symptoms that lack palpable midline cervical discomfort, neurologic abnormalities, or other acute or distracting injuries elsewhere in the body. The following list of possible radiographic study indications includes:

• History of serious injury, particularly high impact motor vehicle accidents, rollovers, ejections, collisions involving bicycles or recreational vehicles, or falls from heights of more than one meter
• Age more than 65.
• Quebec Classification Grades III and IV: Suspicion of fracture, dislocation, instability, or neurologic impairment.
• Neck discomfort that has lasted at least six weeks without an apparent cause or that gets worse while lying neck discomfort that has lasted at least six weeks without an apparent cause or that gets worse while lying down.
• Constitutional symptoms, fever, localized pain, a possible tumor, a history of malignancy, or a possible systemic condition like endocrinopathy or rheumatoid arthritis

What our office can do if you have workers compensation injury

We have the experience to help you with their workers compensation injuries. We understand what you are going through and will meet your medical needs and follow the guidelines set by the New York State Workers Compensation Board.

We understand the importance of your workers compensation cases. Let us help you navigate through the maze of dealing with the workers compensation insurance company and your employer.

We understand that this is a stressful time for you and your family. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us so we will do everything we can to make it as easy on you as possible.